Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about getting started, choosing between CS and AI, and what to expect from the program.
Getting Started
Yes. The AI major will be available beginning Fall 2026.
The Office of Admissions will contact all students admitted to Computer Science for Fall 2026 after the SIR deadline (May 1) with an official interest form . Submitting this form allows you to explore the option with no risk or commitment to switch majors, it simply opens the process.
The first cohort will be intentionally small, allowing for close faculty advising and a tightly supported experience from day one. Students who express interest will be reviewed and notified of their placement with enough time to plan their Fall schedule.
The interest form asks about your motivations and goals, not your GPA or test scores. Expressing genuine interest in AI is the most important thing you can provide.
Be part of the first cohort!
The new B.S. in Artificial Intelligence launches in Fall 2026. Admitted Computer Science students can express interest now and switch into the major early.
Choosing Between CS and AI
Yes. The two majors are designed to be flexible.
Because they share a common foundation, switching typically requires only a small number of additional courses and can be done with little to no delay in graduation when planned early. Students who want to enter the AI major for Fall 2026 should do so through the initial interest form process. If you are admitted to CS for Fall 2026 and are interested in AI, this is your earliest opportunity to join the program.
No. The College of Engineering does not allow students to double major in two engineering degrees, including Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence.
These programs are intentionally rigorous and have significant overlap in upper-division coursework. Completing both would not be feasible within university guidelines and could limit your ability to fully engage with either program.
If you are interested in both areas, you do not need to double major. The two degrees share a strong foundation, and each offers flexibility through electives and projects to explore topics across computer science and AI.
Not at all! The AI degree is a focused path, not a narrow one.
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as:
- AI and machine learning engineering
- Applied AI in fields like healthcare, finance, and autonomous systems
- Research roles in industry and academia
- AI safety, ethics, and policy
The program also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in AI and related fields.
Program Details
No. All requirements are listed on the Curriculum page. There are no additional hidden requirements for completing the degree.
No. The degree is designed as a cohesive program in artificial intelligence.
Students can tailor their experience through electives and project work rather than formal emphases.
Yes, and intentionally so.
Modern AI relies heavily on probability, statistics, and optimization. The curriculum is designed to give you the mathematical foundation needed to understand and build these systems.
Advising & Support
Students are supported by dedicated faculty undergraduate advisors.
Each cohort is assigned a faculty advisor who provides guidance throughout the program, including:
- course planning and electives
- internships and career paths
- graduate school preparation
The department also offers regular advising sessions, including orientation, elective advising, and drop-in advising opportunities.
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